“A single twig breaks, but the bundle of twigs is strong.” – Tecumseh
Hurricane Sandy caused enormous devastation throughout New Jersey and across the tri-state area, and many areas experienced record flooding and lengthy power outages. We have heard of no injuries to any of our members, but many our churches and homes were without power for long periods and several of our churches experienced some mild to significant damage.
Our diocesan disaster coordinator, the Rev. Deacon Chris McCloud, and Bishop Mark Beckwith are working to provide resources to places that need it and to help church buildings in the Diocese of Newark impacted by the devastation of the storm. The Hurricane Sandy Property Relief effort will collect donations and provide assistance to congregations who have had church damage caused by the storm.
There are many reports of fallen limbs, shingles blown off the roof, basements flooding and several broken windows. The tree in the center of the memorial garden at St. Mary’s Sparta was uprooted. All Saints’ in Hoboken has experienced no damage, but their Jubilee Center, a three story building located in the west side of the city, was at one point under five feet of water.
In the midst of the turmoil, people have been reaching out to one another in new and creative ways to engage in ministry. Many of our churches responded by sharing their resources of utilities, food, warmth, companionship and hospitality. For the storm-wearied our houses of worship became houses for comfort and renewal, however temporary.
Your generous support is deeply appreciated to help those congregations and churches in the Diocese of Newark with the needed recovery and repairs to their buildings and to enable them to continue their mission in supporting the people and communities in the northern parts of New Jersey.
